When should you check the Christmas map? After your walk, perhaps.
You read the first letter, close the map and go outside. When you return, see how far the journey has come. Checking the map can be a small part of the things you already enjoy doing at Christmas.
The next letter can wait until you’re back
Try three moments to look together: after breakfast, after a walk and before the presents. Each time, open a new letter and notice one change on the map. Then put the phone in the same place, perhaps on a kitchen shelf.
Adjust those moments to your plans. If the children are building with blocks or chatting with Grandad, let them carry on. A scheduled journey continues while the page is closed; new messages load when you open it again with an internet connection.
- Choose three moments: after breakfast, after lunch and before the finale. Adjust them to suit your family.
- On each visit, notice one change and read any new message.
- Put the phone in a familiar place. The story should not need clicks between checks.
Three example checks
| Idea | How to try it at home |
|---|---|
| After breakfast | Open the first envelope, then go and play. |
| After a walk | Find one change on the map, then take a break. |
| Before presents | Open the map together once the adults are ready. |
“Now we know which way he’s going. Let’s go for a walk, then see whether he’s crossed the river when we get back.”
Adapt them to the way your family talks.
Before the final check, agree between adults that the presents are ready. Then open the map together.